AS the procurement of body-worn cameras continues on a phased basis, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has announced that members of the public can expect to see more and more of them on police personnel across the country, particularly those engaged in public interaction.

“This can help de-escalate potentially volatile situations and foster positive relationships between the police and the community they serve,” the force announced on social media Saturday.

“The presence of a camera serves as a visual reminder that actions are being recorded, encouraging both officers and civilians to act in accordance with established protocols and guidelines,” it continued.

“In an effort to enhance transparency and accountability within the constabulary, the commissioner of police emphasises that members use their body-worn cameras. Wearing a body camera not only benefits the officer but also enhances public trust in law enforcement.”

In April 2003, deputy prime minister and Minister of National Security Dr Horace Chang said another 1,000 body-worn cameras would be procured for members of the JCF during the 2023/24 fiscal year. Making his contribution to the 2023/24 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives, Dr Chang said 400 cameras had already been deployed.

“We see the body cameras not as a challenge for the police force but as a means of ensuring that the police officers will have the second eye that will relieve a lot of our police officers from false accusations… it’s a protective mechanism,” he explained.

Dr Chang said the current police uniforms support wearing the body cameras.

A body-worn camera is a wearable audio, video, or photographic recording system used to document images of activities between police and the public.